Healthy Eating Vital Sign: A New Assessment Tool for Eating Behaviors

Abstract

Introduction . Most dietary questionnaires are not created for use in a clinical setting for an adult health exam. We created the Healthy Eating Vital Sign (HEVS) to assess eating behaviors associated with excess weight. This study investigated the validity and reliability of the HEVS. Methods . Using a cross-sectional study design, participants responded to the HEVS and the Block Food Frequency Questionnaire (BFFQ). We analyzed the data descriptively, and, with Pearson’s correlation and Cronbach coefficient alpha. Results . We found moderate correlation ( rho > 0.3 ) between multiple items of the HEVS and BFFQ. The Cronbach's alpha was 0.49. Conclusion . Our results support the criterion validity and internal reliability of the HEVS as compared to the BFFQ. The HEVS can help launch a dialogue between patients and providers to monitor and potentially manage dietary behaviors associated with many chronic health conditions, including obesity.